Respiratory Alkalosis

Respiratory alkalosis is primary reduction in PaCO2 (hypocapnia) from alveolar hyperventilation. Causes: anxiety/pain, hypoxia, pulmonary embolism, sepsis, pregnancy, liver failure, and salicylate toxicity. Clinical: lightheadedness, perioral/extremity paresthesias, tetany (low ionized calcium), palpitations, and chest tightness. Treatment: identify and treat underlying cause; paper-bag rebreathing for acute hyperventilation syndrome; correct hypoxia/sepsis.

Common Symptoms

Lightheadedness; perioral/extremity paresthesias; tetany; palpitations; chest tightness; anxiety

Causes and Pathogenesis

Hyperventilation lowers PaCO2, causing cerebral vasoconstriction and increased pH; low ionized calcium causes neuromuscular irritability.

Treatment

Treat underlying cause (hypoxia/sepsis/PE); rebreathing for acute hyperventilation; reassurance; correct pH slowly

Preventive Measures

Treat anxiety/hypoxia/sepsis; avoid excessive mechanical ventilation.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Internal Medicine department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.